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Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute
Ministry of Forestry, Fisheries, & Sustainable Development
Princess Margret Drive
2nd Floor Coastal Zone Complex
P.O. Box 1884
Belize City, Belize
Phone: 223-0719/223-5739
Fax: 223-5738
Website: www.coastalzonebelize.org
E-mail : [email protected]
Catch and release fishing is a great way to help
protect threatened fish species, but it requires the use
of proven techniques ensuring continued fish health.
Hooks
BEST PRACTICES FOR CATCH
AND RELEASE FISHING
Mission
“To support the allocation, sustainable use and planned
development of Belize’s Coastal Resources through
increased knowledge and building alliances, for the benefit
of all Belizeans and the global community.”
Sport Fishing In
Belize
Hooking location and time removal affect survival rate
Always use barbless hooks
When fishing with bait, use circle hooks
Fight Time
Shorter fight time increases survival
Tackle should match conditions and size of fish
Always land fish before it is exhausted and loses equilibrium
when released
If fish loses equilibrium after you land it, revive it until it can
swim upright
Handling
Minimize handling of fish: slime and scales can be easily
damaged and removed
Use hemostats/ pliers to quickly remove hooks while
keeping the fish in the water
Avoid exposing fish to air, even when taking pictures,
limit exposure to 15 seconds
Avoid touching the gills, it can cause damage and impair
breathing
CZMAI now hosts the Belize Game Fishing
Association (BGFA) Perpetual Trophy